Do’s and don’ts while using lifting beams

A lifting beam in action

Lifting beams include various loose and removable items of lifting gear. While using lifting beams and its accessories make sure not to use defective or distorted beams or attachments. There are various types of lifting beams and each type serves a particular purpose. In no case shall one try to use a beam for the purpose it is not meant for without consulting the manufacturer.

While calculating the total load which will be imposed on the crane hook, the weight of the beam and its attachments must be added to the weight of the load.  Make certain that the SWL on the individual lift points remain within the limits and be sure to take extra care where these are adjustable.

The load should be stable so that the beam remains at its intended attitude during use. Take extra care while lifting and setting down the load as at these points the risk of instability and overload is maximum.

Lifting beams require minimal maintenance but there are certainly some things to take care of. Make sure the bolted joints are in good shape and corrosion damage is prevented. Regularly inspection of lifting beams is very important in order to prevent any accident.

Maintenance of different types of lifting slings

In order to maintain safety while operating with lifting slings it is very essential that are maintained as per the instruction provided by the manufacturer. Properly maintained lifting slings will allow the people at the work place to feel more secure and will increase the life of the sling as well.  

Chain 

 

Chain lifting slings are mostly used for heavy load and a slight mistake in maintaining them properly can cause disaster. Prior to every inspection chain lifting slings must be cleaned properly in order to make any possible damages visible. The length of the chain sling should be checked every now and then to make sure that the sling is not stretching beyond the limits.  

 

Wire Rope

 

Like chain lifting sling, wire rope slings must be cleaned prior to each inspection. Wire rope lifting sling should be lubricated regularly according to manufacturer's instructions. Periodic inspection for corrosion should be done by the operator. In case any indication of corrosion is found, operator must follow the recommendations provided by the manufacturer.

 

Fiber Ropes and Synthetic Webs

 

Fiber ropes and synthetic webs are generally not serviced or repaired but discarded straightaway once any damage occurs. Operators must follow manufacturer's recommendations.

Snatch block warnings

As we already know that snatch blocks are an essential component of the recovery kit for off roadsters. However, if operated in a wrong manner, these tools can do some serious damages. Here are some points, which will provide you a brief insight on the handling of snatch blocks.

To avoid serious properly damage, injury or death, a person must follow these precautionary measures:

1. Always rig snatch block systems in such a manner so that the load will not fall or slip.
2. Make sure that the lifting system is designed with appropriate sheave assembly material. This will prevent premature sheave, wire rope or bearing failure.
3. If you are not good with rigging, hire a qualified professional to rig the snatch block system.
4. Make sure the workers are keeping their hands and body away from the swivels, block sheaves and pinch points”, especially where wire rope makes contact with the load or block parts.
5. Avoid side loading snatch blocks – as it can exerts additional force.
6. Make sure the workers are alert all the time and have put on appropriate safety gear.
7. It is essential that the hook supports the load instead of the latch.

Basics of rigging up a winch snatch block

A winch snatch block is an ideal tool for the situations where you need to rig up a double line pull for more power, redirect a pull or roll out more cable for maximum single-line pulling power. A snatch block is a winch device that should be possessed by every off-roader. It makes the winch more versatile and offers extra power and direction you need to get out safely.

How to Rig Up a Snatch Block

1. Free the winch hook
2. Feed out several feet of cable
3. Connect the winch hook to your car’s tow hook
4.  Make sure the winch is attached to the frame and not the mounting plate
5. Open the snatch block by rotating the side plate till an opening occurs where the cable can be attached
6. Move the cable through the snatch block until it fits into the metal groove of the wheel
7. Turn the side plate till the two side plates gets lined up together
8. Using snatch block, feed out cable till it reaches your anchor point
9. Using a tree trunk protector or a shackle secure the snatch block to the anchor point